Cargo evacuation by barges: NPA wants PTML, Measkline emulated

Harboursandport.com: Lagos -- At a time when the chaotic traffic gridlock is making evacuation of cargoes from the port difficult, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) says it will encourage the movement and evacuation of cargoes from the nation’s Seaports to the hinterland across the country.

Managing Director of NPA, Ms Hadiza Bala Usman

Port and Terminal Multipurpose Limited, (PTML) and the Meask line group have been moving their vehicles and empty containers respectively from the ports to their bonded terminals by barges.  

The NPA Managing Director, Hadiza Bala Usman said this will help reduce the pressure on the Port Access Road and to serve as a solution to the perennial gridlock being experienced within the Ports Axis.

The NPA boss was speaking through the Executive Director Marine and Operations, Dr. Sokonte Davies at the first Quarter Forum of the Ports Consultative Council (PCC) held at Victoria Island, Lagos recently.

The Managing Director informed Stakeholders at the gathering that the NPA Management pay premium to the developments of Port infrastructure in order to engender efficient service delivery in the nation’s Seaports.

Hadiza assured the Stakeholders that the Authority is working assiduously towards ensuring the speedy completion of renovation works on the Quay Apron at the Ikorodu Lighter Terminal. Expressing their position that the renovation of the Quay would improve the operational efficiency of the Ports.

While assuring that Management would continue to keep a harmonious relationship with its Stakeholders, the Managing Director enjoined the Stakeholders for their support and compliance with Government directives.

The Chairman PCC, OtunbaKunle Folarin at the occasion urged Operators and Stakeholders to engage the NPA on a mutually beneficial synergy which would help in moving the Industry forward.